Where can I find the best views of Mount Fuji?

Hi there,

We’ll be doing a self-drive trip using public transport in May 2026.

On Day 6, we’ll arrive in Hakone by train from Tokyo in late morning. We’ll spend the night in Hakone before heading to Kyoto.

The main goal of this stop is clearly the view (no hiking) of Mount Fuji, not so much exploring Hakone, where the sights seem limited. I’ve read on the forum that the view is great from Gotemba, but it also takes a good hour by bus to get there. And, apart from that view, there’s nothing else to see in Gotemba!

So, I’m not sure what to choose. Any thoughts? Or alternatives to suggest? Maybe some spots in Hakone or Gotemba for a great view?

Thanks in advance.

Hey,

I don’t know Hakone, so I went for Kawaguchiko for 2 days instead. Had a gorgeous ride renting an e-bike around the lake and also visiting nearby Saiko Lake.

There’s also the ropeway, but it gets crowded.

~ Kawaguchiko ~ Mt. Fuji Panorama Ropeway

And of course, the stunning Chureito Pagoda that Patrick91230 has as his profile pic.

Arakurayama Sengen Park « Churei Pagoda »: A breathtaking view of Mount Fuji that’s currently drawing tourists from all over the world

From Tokyo, you can take buses to Kawaguchiko in about 2 hours.

Hi there,

This site is THE go-to reference for all travel around Japan: https://world.jorudan.co.jp/mln/en/?sub_lang=nosub

Other official, reliable, and trustworthy sites are listed here: https://japon-fiable.blogspot.com/

For some fun and smiles: https://japoninsolite.blogspot.com/

Have a great trip! !

Thanks everyone! 🙂 I’ll check all of this out.

Hi there,

There are several beautiful spots where you can see Mount Fuji, like the Arakura Fuji Sengen Jinja Shrine and its Chureito Pagoda 🏯, Lake Motosu (the image of Mount Fuji on the 1,000-yen bills), and of course the other lakes around Mount Fuji. In spring, there’s also a stunning view from the Fuji Shibazakura Festival near Lake Motosu. We also saw Mount Fuji from the Ferris wheel at Fuji-Q Highland amusement park. Otherwise, near Hakone, you can get a view of Mount Fuji from Lake Ashi and its floating torii gate. There’s also the Owakudani ropeway, if you can take it, which offers views of Mount Fuji and the Owakudani fumaroles—a surprising spot. Unfortunately, we couldn’t reach this place 😢 because the volcano was highly active. In the area, you can also see it from the Mishima Skywalk. We’ve posted some photos here under Photo Gallery - Travel. Unfortunately, our travel journal doesn’t have any Mount Fuji photos yet since we haven’t finished it 😅.

Thanks for the info. And congrats on your gallery—I really enjoyed it!

Thanks,

Hope this gives you some ideas!

Hey everyone!

I’m revisiting this topic, specifically the Arakura Fuji Sengen Jinja Shrine. I’ve read there are 300 to 400 steps (depending on who you ask!) to get up there. Since I have some minor mobility issues, is there a shuttle or funicular available? Otherwise, it’s a "no way" for me! Thanks in advance.

Come on! I’ll answer myself, just for fun😉

The best spot will be wherever you can actually see Fuji—we didn’t see a thing because of the crappy weather!!!